Creator of the Stones

The Stone Guild #1

by J.R. Geraci

Jaxon isn’t sure how he created the green stone, but it could be exactly what he needs to save his brother. To master the power of the stone, he enlists the help of the greatest healer ever known.

Quinn is a red stone bearer doing everything she can to distract herself from her best friend’s impending marriage. She’s focused instead on the string of murders haunting the kingdom.

When their paths cross, the danger grows. Soon, they will have no choice but to confront the threats and uncover long-hidden secrets—including their own.

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Audiobook, Fiction

352 pages, Paperback

First published April 10, 2023

About the author

Jessica Geraci grew up in New York, with her four siblings. Her writing has appeared in numerous places including newspapers, magazines, websites, ads, video scripts, and graphics. Geraci spent two years in Vanuatu serving in the Peace Corps. Her favorite Peace Corps projects included forming a women's leadership group and spearheading a project to help fund and install a library at the local school. She currently lives in Alexandria, Virginia with her husband.

Reviews

[Emma Ann]

This book reminded me a lot of the kinds of fairy tale retellings I used to read as a kid—Gail Carson Levine’s Princess Tales and Shannon Hale’s Goose Girl come to mind. We have secret identities, magic, and a contest for a princess’s hand. The writing is simple and straightforward, and the plotting is pretty tight.

A semi-spoiler-y thought, though:
I’m not entirely sure the romance really works, as much as I would like it to. I kept waiting for Quinn to realize that she actually loved Anna, and that this was the real reason why she was so eager to compete in Anna’s contest, because it’s the only thing that really makes sense in my mind. This is the first in a series, so maybe that’s the direction we’re heading, but Quinn’s supposed feelings for Jonathan read like a crush to me. Her feelings for Anna read like love.

Thanks to the author for providing the book for review!

[Tralyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read CREATOR OF THE STONES by J.R. Geraci for the review tour hosted by the author and Hidden Hollow Book Tours. Thank you to both for inviting me along and for the gifted e-arc. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

Jaxon is off on a journey to learn how to heal his ailing brother. He's just discovered that he has magic and created a healing stone, which has been unheard of. On his way, he meets Quinn.

Quinn is a wilderness of red stones. I love her fiery personality. However, she is irritating because she never listens. She just jumps headlong into whatever she thinks needs to be done. If she'd listen to wisdom from someone who actually knows, there might be fewer problems. Her heart is always in the right place, though.

There are secrets, battles, and gruesome murders (not on-page). The characters and worldbuilding are done very well. I love Kit! I thought I had it all figured out, but I was wrong. I can't wait to read the next installment!

I recommend CREATOR OF THE STONES to fans of fantasy, epic fantasy, unique magic, kingdom politics, murder mystery, hidden identities, and chosen one vibes.

[Kimberlyisaddicted2books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full of magic, crystals, sirens, and gnomes this book will leave you wanting more immediately!

Jaxon is on a journey to find out how to utilize his stone bearer skills to help his family and he meets some amazing friends and acquaintances on the way. Among his friends, who are all worried about a recent spree of killings in their kingdom, doing their best to protect the princess who is about to be wed and sent away to live with her new suitor.

Stone bearers were born with the ability to manipulate the elements through the use of colored crystals. Green Stone bearers are able to utilize plants and the land, red stone bearers are able to manipulate fire, blue stone bearers can use the air and my favorite, purple stone bearers are able to read people's history, auras, mind, and current energy.

✨🔮✨

The princess's best friend is one of the main characters, Quinn, a fiery red headed, red stone bearer who has an axe to grind for anyone standing in the way of her goals. She's brave, courageous, and a true heroine who will leave you wanting her as a best friend and ally.

Gwen, a legendary stone bearer, not only speaks to the plants but is the plants that she utilizes through her green stones and determination. Jaxon has travelled far to meet Gwen and for good reason! She's the most powerful stone bearer known!

Mae, a beautiful siren, is a purple stone bearer and a favorite of mine. (can we get a book all about her!)

Jaxon has a secret he's keeping from his new friends, will you find out what it is? You will if you read it!

These characters jumped off the page and into my heart. The book switches from one perspective to another in smooth, fun transitions. If you enjoy magic, wonder, danger and love, you will enjoy the first book of this new, iconic series

[Sarah Nolan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This first installment of the Stone Guild series held me captivated the entire time. It’s quickly become one of my favorite YA series I’ve read all year!

Jaxon sets out to seek the help of the most well known green stone bearer and soldier, Gwen, who is said to have even brought the King of Viridis back to life. After mysteriously creating a green stone, Jaxon knows that the key to curing his deathly ill younger brother is to have Gwen train him on how to heal with the power of the green stone. Soon Jaxon and Gwen find themselves summoned to protect the princess of Viridis, Annabel, as she prepares to wed a neighboring prince after the Suitors Championship has taken place. The kingdom of Viridis is on edge, trying to discover who is sucking the life out of red stone bearers throughout the kingdom. Jaxon unwillingly befriends Quinn, a red stone bearer and Annabel’s best friend-who also happens to be Gwen’s former trainee. Together with the help of some enemies turned allies, and some enemies who still remain enemies according to Quinn, (aka Prince Jonathan) Jaxon and Quinn will stop at nothing to ensure the princess’ safety, but Jaxon might lose his life, his own secrets, and his heart in the process.

This story was so epic and compelling and filled with so much depth and humor that I literally jumped right into book 2. The characters, the magic, the world, the kingdoms, it was so satisfyingly done!

Romantic Content: Clean, Closed Door

TW: Fantasy Violence, Murder, Dark Magic, Minimal Crude Language

[Elaina Wall · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The more stones you had, the more power you had,"

What an adventure! If you're looking for your next YA read, this one has all the caster magic, murder mystery, and action fueled by betrayal!!!

The world was easy to follow, the chapters were quick, and there was a ton of amusing dialog between the numerous loveable characters! The devoted friendships throughout this book made my heart smile.

This tale has many mythical creatures. A sneaky siren, a banished seer, and even guardian gnomes! I mean, it's completely enchanting ✨️

This is author @author.jrgeraci debut novel, and I can't wait to jump back into the fun word of The Stone Guild series!

[Karleigh Kebartas · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 I want to thank the author for sending me a copy!!!! I appreciate that so much!!! I did enjoy the writing, I just felt like the book wasn’t my style exactly. That’s a me problem though. I did enjoy reading the book and look forward to reading more from this author in the future!

[Tea_Reading_and_Oz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like the use of the Stones in this book and the idea of big wells for the stones. It was also a nice quick read and I do want to see how revelations with Jaxon might get resolved and how Quinn and Mae are going to be the saviors they need to be for Annabel.

The only thing was they only barely touched on the murders, they were more of a stepping stone as to Quinn's nature and how much she really wanted to solve that problem. I wonder if the "blood sucker" is who they revealed it to be or if there is another person in the kingdom who was using that as a distraction or an experiment of some sort since only one body would be found.

There was a good amount of political intrigue that makes me wonder what else will happen once war possibly breaks out. And if Twelve Pools will join in on their side or the enemies depending on who they think should be the victor. I did enjoy the characters and hope that theirs some character improvements for Quinn and Jaxon since both are still wary of being complete honest of thinking things through but hopefully they improve and learn from each other.

[Glen Smithberger · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the book! I’m a slow reader and can get distracted but made sure to read a chapter or two before I went to bed. This became something I really looked forward to each day.

Some of the main characters reminded me of both different parts of stories I’ve read and in my life. Quinn felt a lot like my sister: independent, fiery, strong (in many ways), and more!
Jaxon I resonated a lot with. He wanted to help those around him but mostly wanting to help his brother. Plus, he was trying to escape his past.

I loved the action, adventure, and suspense. PLUS!! Kit always being around and comforting made me smile throughout.

I think this is a great read and hope many others read it as well. The suspense at the end was a lot so now I have to read the second book.

[Gnomereader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I highly enjoyed this book! Full of adventure, magic, mystery, and political intrigue, there was very much something for everyone. The writing is great and incredibly visual. I love the concept of the stones holding and enhancing power. I thought it was a creative way to implement magic into this world in a way that is fresh. The characters were interesting and complex and I love how they helped to shape the story. I found myself engaged throughout, waiting to see what would follow.

This is the first book in the series and I can’t wait to read the next, I’m fully invested and really looking forward to see where the adventure goes from here. This YA story is unique and exciting and well worth a read.

[Chasity · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting book but it left so many questions. I feel like I didn't learn much about the world/characters/or the why's. I feel like for a slow paced book there still should have been a couple more answers. The story never fully drew me in which is okay, but it was easy to sit down and do other things for awhile. If you are looking for action packed this is not the book for you. There is no action really until the very end of the book which is short lived. Then the book is quickly over and your left with the what just happened feeling.

[Doug Ferrio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book!!! Can’t wait to read more about Greg!!! Clearly the best character in the series!

[Naseem Tarmohamed · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed a number of YA fiction novels, but not so many in the fantasy realm, and I think it says the most about this story that this was the one to reel me in. Not only can I not wait to read the next installment in this series, but it’s opened a whole new subgenre of reads to me that I never paid much attention to before.

The story opens with a trepidatious Jaxon arriving at the home of Gwen, an infamous and highly skilled healer, whom he believes to be be the only person that can help him cure his brother, who is in his home village of Twelve Pools, wasting away from a deadly disease that has never seen a cure.

He barely has time to meet Gwen before he’s drafted on the trip to Viridis that sets the scene for the rest of the story, and where we meet the rest of the cast of characters, each more enjoyable than the next.

Jax is an extraordinarily likable character right from the get go, and while I thought all the characters were well-written and was eager to learn more about their back stories, particularly Quinn, Rosa and Annabel, I’m surprised to say that after having read and reread this story (yes, it’s that good), that Jax remains my favorite. We’ll see what the next book holds…I’m holding out for Quinn to claw her way to the top. That I’m this invested in these characters is proof positive of how this story reels you in and leaves you desperately wanting the next installment!

Settle in with your hot cuppa, some meat balls and pretzels if you’re lucky, a cozy blanket, and plenty of time, because you will not want to put this down.

[Chelsea Moreton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Favorite line of the book,
“Calm your tits, Gweny. The king sent me"

I did struggle at the beginning to get Into this book,
I really did think it was going to be a DNF, but I'm so glad I kept on reading, it's a really good read.

I loved all the little details, just the little things you wouldn't normally see written, I love reading all the little details, makes me want to read more.
What stood out most was that you can imagine the excitement when they were all talking, when they talked about stone bearer bounding someone with vines, and when they say 'stones cannot be taken' no matter what!

The author has a great sense of humor, and the more I read the book the twists and turns kept coming making the storyline more captivating, as the story went on I could see the starts of friendships, finding mentors, and start to see the first sparks of love, I loved being able to see all this evolve.

I will be reading the rest of the series and I would recommend it to others!

A line that madw me laugh
'I miss that old lady. Don’t tell her I said that!” “I’m too scared of her to tell her anything,” Jaxon admitted'

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started this book thinking that it was a middle school read that might not engage me much but I was interested in the fantasy plot anyway. Surprise! The characters were compelling, the story was a lot of fun, and the world-building was just amazing! The book was a wild ride all the way through but it ramped up unbelievably in the last 70-100 pages when I know I was reading about 10 times my usual speed. This book gave me that delectable feeling as a reader when I was no longer conscious of reading but was IN the story, watching it happen--totally immersed. That doesn't happen to me very often and Geraci crafted it all so well with skillful foreshadowing that created conflict and tension and so many looming and emergent questions and emotions--all at once!

The story begins with Jaxon, a wielder of a green (healer) magic stone (which he somehow created himself, hence the book's title) who is seeking training from the most famous healer in the land, Gwen. He wants to learn what he needs to know so he can cure his younger brother from a terminal illness (which no one has ever been able to heal). Jaxon meets up with his feisty and quirky mentor who, though elderly, is called upon by the King to provide support during some current political intrigues that may become quite dangerous. She drags Jaxon along for the ride, training him as they go.

In town, we meet Quinn and her very clever fox sidekick Kit. Quinn is one of those spitfire heroines that can sometimes get pretty annoying to read but author Geraci manages it well by using supporting characters to reign her in and keep her (mostly) in line without losing the sense of her high passion for... just about everything. Her best friend is Princess Annabel who is pledged to marry a neighboring Prince. Their upcoming wedding has unfortunately become the catalyst for potential problems between the two kingdoms. If it comes off successfully it will be a huge victory, but the odds, as always, are never in their favor.

The story follows the many adventures of these various characters and enmeshes us further and further in the world and its magic and customs. A main focus is the Suitor's Challenge, a mostly ceremonial tournament of swords and magic where the Prince will have to prove his worthiness for Princess Annabel by taking on all comers. Quinn is scheduled to be one of the combatants and her training sessions allow Jaxon to improve upon the skills Gwen has been able to teach him so far.

Yes, it ends in a major cliffhanger and that is hard, but the reading was good so I'm going to be there for book 2 for sure. There are a few well-placed and surprising twists in the story along with satisfying reveals though not all of the secrets have come to light--by a long shot. Still, it's well worth waiting for and a lot of fun.

I'm grateful to have received this book from the author in a giveaway and have offered this review voluntarily without expectation.

[Salem Chapman · Rating 4 out of 5]

For a YA fantasy, I found the book fairly entertaining. I wouldn’t say it was inventive or unique, but the plot kept me engaged enough to finish the story and found the more I read, the more interesting it became. I enjoyed the subtle feminist messaging within the book, putting a lot of feeling into the dystopian kingdoms of oppression and how young girls were being forced into marriages and the struggles of that terror. I thoroughly enjoyed this aspect despite feeling triggered by it slightly.

Now for the things I didn’t like, for most of the books I read that are catered to children, there is always some inappropriate language while describing these children.

For example, when the character Mae, the siren, is introduced, her age is never revealed but it is heavily implied that she is around the same age as our main protagonist Jaxon, who is named to be 16. During this introduction of Mae, they are at a bar giving alcohol to said minors and the adults accompanying the main protagonist’s are very intentionally sexually harassing this character and trying to flirt and use her as a sexual object to the adults, which were being enabled. I dont care about any explanation, this is weird. I didn’t enjoy this description of a young, school aged girl.

This doesn’t particularly happen again until the end of the book when Prince Jonathan quite literally assaults Quinn after humiliating her and making her vulnerable. This really doesnt need explanation. Im unsure if the author knows that the scene in which he advances on Quinn and kisses her despite the knife to his neck was indeed sexual abuse, but I absolutely hate this romanticized trope that creates a very unhealthy love triangle since its built on sex abuse that children who this book is catered to isnt going to be able to distinguish.

My last issue is I feel there was a big plot hole in Prince Jonathan and his brother’s evil plan that was in fact brought up in the book, but I think lazily brushed aside as “that’s just the decision he chose”

However the way the book was left on the cliffhanger after so much tragedy and the need to save their friend, does make me want to read the rest of the books. Also I find some characters felt two dimensional and predatory for a kids book.

[Hassena · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a books about Jaxon who develops the ability to channel the power of the nurture stone in an attempt to heal his brother from lux pox. He joins forces with Gwen (a knight) and Mae (a siren) to protect Quinn's best friend Annabel from danger when she has to travel to another place Windsor to marry the prince. Also part of the adventure is Quinn, who has a different stone and is exploring the mysteries of the world she lives in Viridis.

The novel is well-paced and engaging, with plenty of action and intrigue. The author does a good job of developing the characters and their relationships with each other over the length of the book to a point that you feel like you're a part of the journey. Jaxon's journey of self-discovery is so fun to read when he is learning to control his powers and come to terms with his destiny as a creator of the stones .

The novel also features a number of strong female characters which I loved, including Gwen, Mae, and Quinn, each of whom plays a pivotal role in the story.

One of the strengths of the novel is its rich world-building. The author has created a believable and immersive fantasy world with its own unique history, culture, and magic system. The concept of the stones and the different abilities they bestow upon their bearers is thought out and adds to the story. Plus, the author's ability to describe the locations is deeply immersive.

At times, the plot can feel a bit predictable, and some of the characters' motivations are not always entirely clear and the novel ends on a bit of a cliffhanger, which may leave some readers feeling frustrated. I am one of those, I like wrapped up in a bow endings but I guess that's a me thing.

Overall, the book is enjoyable and entertaining read that is sure to appeal to fans of fantasy novels. A worthwhile read.

ARC provided for unbiased review

[Liesbeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

We are following the story of Jason and Quinn. In their tradition, it is natural that when they are born, there is a ritual that assigns a stone to them, whether it be purple, green, or red. However, with Jason, nothing happened. They thought that he was born without magic. But that is not the case; as he wishes to heal his sick younger brother, he creates a healing stone in the process. Everybody thinks it is unnatural and does not want to teach him. So, he seeks out Lady Gwen Gibson, who fought in the Isabela war. Jason is just talking to her when a regiment of the King's Watch forces her to take up an assignment—to escort Princess Annabel to her new kingdom after her marriage.

In the meantime, Quinn is good friends with Annabel, as her father is the commander of the King's Watch. As Lady Gwen now has little time to teach Jason, she asks Quinn to teach him. But Quinn does not know who he really is and could pose a danger to the safety of Princess Annabel. As the wedding preparations progress, many people arrive, and security becomes tighter as they suspect something will happen. It is turmoil as each character comes to terms with who to trust and who not to. Quinn also has an animal companion, Kit the fox, who seems to be a very good judge of character.

But all is not as it seems, and those who appear trustworthy may ultimately betray you in the end. I find the whole fantastical world fascinating and unique. There is much action, with little romances in between, and this world is also populated with gnomes and sirens. It is a good mix for an adventure to an ultimate understanding of what it takes to unite all the kingdoms or let them fall into ruin.

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨Blurb✨
Jaxon accidentally created a green stone which holds healing and nurturing power that is rarely yielded by males. With the proper training, the green stone might be exactly what Jaxon needs to heal his sick brother. Quinn bears red stones which match her fiery spirit. Quinn’s priority to protect Princess Annabel, her best friend, frequently leads to rash decisions and trouble. Suspicious and unnatural murders haunt the kingdom and Princess Annabel’s upcoming arranged marriage. When their paths cross, Jaxon and Quinn must join forces to face danger, confront threats, uncover secrets and, most importantly, save the Princess.
✨Review✨
This book had me hooked from start to finish. I became instantly invested in the characters’ lives. I loved how the author started each character’s story independently and followed their journeys until they connected. Jaxon tends to act more rationally and carefully whereas Quinn makes decisions on impulse. Seeing their personalities collide and grow to complement each other was so fun.🤗
J.R. Geraci has created what I consider the perfect plot formula in The Creator of the Stones. It progresses seamlessly between building upon the fantasy elements, showing the character development and relationship growth, encounter with intense threats, and comedic relief. I went from laughing out loud one minute to gasping in surprise the next.
Also, there is a 🦊fox companion and a sweet, orphaned 🐻bear cub that had me squealing in delight every time they were mentioned.
If you enjoy YA fantasy, romance, comedy, dual-POV, magic, and whimsical, mythical creatures, this book is for you!

[Roger Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚 Book Review 📚 Book: Creator of the Stones
Author: J. R. Geraci
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
#bookloungereviewteam


This is the first book in The Stone Guild Series and establishes a strong basis for the continuing saga. The story evolves when the type of magic a person inherits is based upon their personality. In this case, Jaxon is the only man to inherit the magic of the green stone, a stone that Jaxon creates and hopes will enable him to cure his brother from a deadly disease, but first Jaxon must master the magic of the stone. He leaves his kingdom in search of a teacher and meets Quinn, a strong and passionate red-stone bearer that he hopes will teach him how to use his powers. Jaxon learns that Quinn is also the best friend of a princess, who she will protect against all threats, and the threats are all becoming too real and intensifying as time for the arranged marriage of the princess comes closer.
I enjoyed the story and the premise of the plot was intriguing.
The storyline was suspenseful and emotional, with a hint of romance to keep the reader fascinated. There were some interesting twists to keep the reader turning pages and I found the characters entertaining. I did feel that the character development could have been improved, and the pace could have been a bit faster. Overall, I would recommend this book for fantasy readers and am anxiously looking forward to book two. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Readers Copy

[Angela Brannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This YA fantasy tale was quite entertaining. Although it was slow and uneven at the beginning due to the introductions the the ensemble cast of characters, the pace quickly picked up as the preliminary action took off.

The main female characters are a princess named Annabel and a sword-wielding young lady named Quinn. Quinn's father is against her becoming part if the Royal Guard. There is also a strong female role model in the healer/guard Gwen. I wish the princess was not quite so passive, though. The secondary female characters are all a delight and I wish I had spent more time with them. I loved that Jaxon, the main male character, was cast in a role his society assumed was female-only, even though he was not in any way effeminate.

The main flaw in this book is the lack of character development in the secondary characters. Although each of them is interesting, they were not fleshed out enough to allow me to develop a deep seated attachment to them. Maybe if the book was longer the author could have given up greater insight into their backstory and motivations.

The storyline is great, although the climactic battle was sort of thrown in there out of left field. The magic and worldbuilding are excellent and unique, so I am looking forward to finding out what the heck is up with those two princes in the next book. Definitely a recommended read for teens that love fantasy and magic. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this new author's work.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Cristen Cagle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Creator of the Stones is an enjoyable relatively quick-paced lower ya fantasy and is the first in what appears to be a planned trilogy with book 3 releasing sometime in 2025.

I'll keep the beginning of the review spoiler free so see below for the full spoiler review where I'll get into specifics.

Pacing: Like I said, the book is relatively quick-paced. There is quite a bit that we are told happened to the characters rather than those being scene we watch/experience with the character, some of which I wish had been changed.

Characters:
-Jaxon is one of our lead characters and he stays pretty even-keeled throughout. He has a primary goal and everything he does is to achieve said goal.
-Quinn is a bit chaotic and I kept expecting her to walk herself into another trap. She definitely acts before she really thinks, which keeps creating problems for her.
-Gwen is a renowned green stone wielder whose helped Jaxon sought - I do wish we'd spent more time with her on screen as she always had insight that appeared helpful.
-Annabel is another prominent side character that is slowly becoming a main character - she's the princess of Viridia and is destined to marry a prince of Windsor at the conclusion of the suitor's championship

A few other notable side characters include Mae, the siren and purple stone wielder whom I imagine will continue to have a prominent rule to play, and Greg, the soldier with a haunted past who is kinda sorta not really still friends with Gwen.

Magic System
It is definitely well thought and each color stone does have a specific purpose. My only wish here is that we saw more of the training of how to use the stones but perhaps that will be answered in later books.

Spoiler-Filled Portion of the Review:
Here will be my thoughts/questions/wishes/comments on specific moments/characters/scenes throughout the book


I honestly wish we'd known from the get go about Jaxon's true identity as I feel it would have increased the tension when in his pov. Instead it felt like we didn't truly get to know him until toward the end.

Speaking of the reveal of Jaxon's identity (which I suspected based on how nervous he was about his sister finding out where he was) - how/why did Quinn suddenly learn he was the prince of Twelve Pools? They've spent tons of time together and then right after the suitor's championship it just all of a sudden gets revealed? I wish we'd seen how Quinn came to this realization and why.

I enjoyed learning about the stones and how they are homed throughout the world. Definitely curious if Pima (a baby dire bear they discovered at the green stone) will become a prominent sidekick in later books.

The action sequence toward the end was pretty well done too!

Overall, I'm curious where the trilogy will go next!

[Hailey Brzoska · Rating 4 out of 5]

💎💎💎💎/5

I don’t typically read books like this one, and I probably wouldn’t have picked it up if there wasn’t a book tour for it. But I was pleasantly surprised by how much this interested me!

In the first half of the book, I wasn’t as into it. We were learning the ropes of what was going on and learning some new information chapters at a time. And I wasn’t as connected to the characters.

But the second half really picked up and I was starting to love the characters and want to know more about them and what might happen to them. And there were connections growing along the way between them that was keeping me on my toes. No romance technically occurred but there might’ve been some tension that tied me over.

I loved the Suitors Championship and a little moment that happened afterward regarding two of those key players, even though I probably shouldn’t have enjoyed that. I liked the drama of Jaxon’s secret finally being uncovered and how that played out. But I’m honestly more interested in what’s going to happen next. Because while it wasn’t a mind boggling cliffhanger, it certainly makes me want to come back for more!

I recommend you pick this up if you enjoy some fantasy mixed in with some action, mystery, interconnected characters, secrets, animals, magic, and light violence!

[Brandon Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review
Title: Creator of the Stones; book 1 of The Stone Guild Trilogy
Author: J.R. Geraci
Rating: 4 Stars

I would like to thank the author for this copy of the omnibus in exchange for an honest review. My plan is to rate all three books as I finish, and then do an overall rating of the entire trilogy.

Creator of the Stones was a fun fantasy story that really captured my interest and did an amazing job of drawing me in to the entire story. It has an interesting premise that delivers an emotional impact that is already making me want to jump right in to book 2.

To master the magic of the stone, Jaxon leaves his kingdom behind in search of a teacher. His path crosses with the fiery Quinn, a red stone bearer doing everything she can to protect the princess, her best friend.

This book had an interesting plot that will keep you entertained. Its simplistic prose gives it a YA feel, but it deals with deep and relatable topics. It has a really well thoughtout magic system that isn't used as a crutch, but to highten the plot.

This is my first book by Geraci, and I can honestly say this will not be my last. I am really looking forward to continuing this series and to read any other work the author puts out.

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a clean YA romantasy with unique magic and fun characters, then this needs to go to the top of your TBR! The magic system is so well done. I like how the different color stones wielded link to different kinds of magic, and how you need to seek out someone to learn, it’s not guaranteed there will be someone nearby who can help. The world-building was so well done, and I enjoyed getting to explore it as the story unfolded. The descriptions really transport you into the story, and it’s easy to get lost in the world Geraci has created. The tension is there from the murders, and you’ll find yourself just as invested in solving the mystery as the character. As for romance, it isn’t a heavy focus in the plot, but it is there. I’d call this a fantasy with light romance as a side. The characters themselves are believable, and the MCs are interesting and likable. The friendship bonds that form between the MCs felt natural and made me like them even more. Each brings their own unique flair to the group, and the way they interact often had me smiling. Overall, definitely recommend.

[Greer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Creator of the Stones is the first book in a YA fantasy series featuring kingdoms that often clash. We meet Jaxon, who is searching for a cure for his brother. Jaxon has the unique ability to create stones, which ties into the title. However, he harbors a secret that goes beyond simply crafting shiny stones from ordinary rock. This is his journey to find a cure for his brother, during which he befriends a diverse group of characters, each influenced by different types of stones. The story is filled with adventure, intrigue, and sword fights. There's even some bloodshed, alongside the chaos of an unnatural creature wreaking havoc while a wedding is being planned. Yes, that's a lot for one book! And did I mention a fox? Yes, a fox! I digress. This book is a thrilling read, and I enjoyed meeting all the characters and learning about their quirks. The female characters are bold fighters, which always makes me happy. This is a no-nonsense book, while there’s no romance, there might be a potential union in a future story. If you enjoy a fast-paced fantasy packed with interesting characters, bickering, sword fights, flames, and a bit of blood, then this is the book for you.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars.

I really enjoyed this! This book is set in a really interesting world where there are three types of magical stones (green, red, and purple), each with their unique properties and their respective stone bearers.

This story alternates between Jaxon, a green stone bearer who wants to save his brother, and Quinn a red stone bearer who has a pet fox and is best friends with Princess Annabel. Jaxon seeks training from a renowned healer and Quinn becomes obsessed with the bloodsucker, a murderer running rampant in the kingdom. Once these two meet, their lives become intertwined, and they help each other.

This book is full of great fairy tale characters: princesses and princes, gnomes, a cantankerous soldier-guard, a healer, an ogre, etc. The plot is good, yes, but the relationships between characters is what makes the story so enjoyable. The conversations between them are so realistic. I loved that. Every character is completely relatable. The end result is a fantastic world full of gnomes and great friendships. I highly recommend this book.

[dr.eaming_away · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review

Creator of the Stones kicks off The Stone Guild series with a good start. Thank goodness it’s a series because this was such a fun read!

At just 16, Jaxon does the impossible—he creates a stone that no one has ever been able to wield before. Determined to master its power, he sets out to find the greatest stone wielder out there. Meanwhile, in a neighboring kingdom, a string of mysterious murders shakes the realm, leading him straight into the path of Quinn, the best friend of a princess. And let’s just say, things get very interesting from there!

I loved how naturally the story flowed between different characters. The writing is simple yet effective, making the magic system and world-building easy to follow without losing depth. It proves that simplicity isn’t a weakness—it’s a strength!

With likable characters, especially Jaxon, and fantastic mix of mythical creatures, this book kept me hooked. I can’t wait to see what happens next in the series!

[Addy Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I was not expecting to like this book as much as I did, like wow... it was a great surprise and a wonderful book. The writing was honestly just beautifully crafted work of art, and it's the only way I can think of describing it. It's my first book by the author, but it won't be last.

I love the characters' development. They were fun and engaging, and you really care for them. The world building was amazing as it's the book in a series. There was everything. A great adventure, there's a mystery, there are politics and there's a magic. Also, I love the magic system functioning. It was unique in its own way.

I just completely flew through this book and could not stop reading it because I was so invested. I highly recommend it to fantasy lovers. Just read it. Can't wait to start the second book.

[Therearenobadbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Great start. The characters grabbed immediately. I love the siren a lot although she is not the main character. Quinn is amazing and Jaxon is very honorable. Annabele is a great ruler and her wisdom brings all characters together strengthening the plot. The first volume is a good introduction to the world and the characters' personal goals. I love the idea that Jaxon can create stones, and the magic of the stones is associated with colors and aura. There's never a dull moment, and it's more adventurous than romantic, which is my favorite part, making the journey exciting. Jaxon wants to save his younger brother who is in a kind of coma. Quinn, a red stone bearer, is brave and has no doubts in jumping into danger; she will do everything to protect her princess. Purple stones have unique skills. I wanted to have a purple one.
PS- the fox companion is sweet.

[Adeeba Jafri · Rating 4 out of 5]

"You don’t pull fire from around you—you are the fire."

Creator of the Stones is an engaging, plot-driven fantasy that explores the nature of power and its potential for both harm and healing. The story follows Jaxon, a determined protagonist who seeks to harness the power of a mystical stone to save his brother. His journey leads him to a teacher who can help him unlock the stone’s secrets.

The book features a rich world filled with mythological creatures like gnomes, trolls, and sirens, each playing a distinct role in the story. The writing is vivid and easy to follow, making for an immersive read. While there is some mild language, it remains appropriate for readers 13 and up. Fans of fantasy and adventure will find much to enjoy in this compelling tale.